The warm weather is a great time to embrace all the ways you can be active. Refreshing your body and mind can be as simple as taking a walk in the sunshine. This is true for everyone, but it is particularly important for seniors. Staying active has a host of benefits ranging from the physical to the emotional, but for seniors the cognitive benefits of staying active are critical.

One of the worst things a person can do for their cognitive health is stay isolated and inactive. By staying active and keeping the mind engaged, a person can help stave off cognitive decline and some of the symptoms of dementia. 

So, how do you stay active? If you’re a senior, the first thing to look for is a senior community center. They are starting to re-open and offer a range of programs from yoga to weight lifting and more. Another option is the local YMCA, which is also developing a range of activities focused on keeping seniors active through low-impact exercise programs. 

Don’t discount what you can do to keep your brain exercising, as well. Doing a daily crossword puzzle or meeting up with friends and family for lunch can go a long way to keeping your brain healthy. People who find ways to exercise their brains as they do any other muscle tend to avoid many of the symptoms of depression and cognitive decline. This is another way senior centers, libraries, and other local attractions can benefit elders trying to stay active. As your local museums, zoos, aquariums, and libraries are reopening or expanding their hours, try to participate in one program per month to stay engaged, 

Other ways to keep active as you get older are: 

- Take regular walks

- Calisthenics 

- Swimming 

- Yoga 

However you do it, and whether you do it alone or with a group, you do your brain and body a favor every time you choose to be active over not! 

Follow the Care Concierge for more tips and information about aging well. The Care Concierge is a free service helping seniors and their families navigate senior care options in RI, MA, and CT. More information can be found at www.CareConciergeNE.com